From Moorhead to Mentor: Political science alum creates impactful experiences for college students

 “Don’t be afraid to take the lead. Network and be approachable,” says Nina Johnson, the recipient of the 2025 Service Faculty of the Year Award from the Minnesota State Board of Trustees.

Nina graduated in 2003 from Minnesota State Moorhead with a degree in political science, which she now puts into use at Bemidji State University as the Director of Hobson Union.

When reflecting on her time at Moorhead, Nina says, “I had such high-quality experiences both in and out of the classroom at MSUM. I was involved in clubs, worked in the Admissions Office, and served as staff in campus housing.”

She also says, “I worked with fantastic faculty that I felt knew me individually and were invested in my growth. The great and gregarious, Dr. Andrew Conteh, was my faculty advisor who always encouraged me to push myself to think in new ways and to achieve more than I thought I could.”

BA in Political Science

As a first-generation college graduate, Nina had a whole new pool of opportunities after graduation, and she felt drawn to higher education.

 “The thing I loved most was working on dynamic teams and being a part of creating a great experience for students. I loved the creativity and energy in higher education, so I chose to continue my education with a master’s degree in higher education administration.”

Nina says what she learned at MSUM helped her to be a facilitator and leader in her career, “I had fantastic faculty in political science that had a diversity of perspectives and taught me to look at the world from different angles.”

Specifically, she learned about organizational leadership, public policy, and navigating systems in her political science studies.

After dedicating almost 20 years to the higher education system in Minnesota, Nina feels honored to be recognized for all of her hard work. “It motivates me to keep going because higher education matters. It changes lives. I’m grateful to be part of so many student journeys,” she says.

Nina’s time at MSUM taught her to be supportive and encouraging to students at Bemidji State. In this way she emulates the Dragon Spirit.

Nina says that if you are a student looking to make a difference in your community or institution you should “be the most enthusiastic person you know”.

““Show up and bring your best self forward,” she says, “I think sometimes we let our negative voices speak too loudly. We think we aren’t good enough or don’t have much to contribute or we wait for an invitation. Don’t be afraid to take the lead.”